GUWAHATI: The Assam Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has issued a strong warning to the Public Works Department (PWD) for causing inconvenience to the public during the ongoing Noonmati-Dighalipukhuri flyover construction in Guwahati. The commission criticised the authorities for failing to implement essential dust control and debris clearance measures, calling the negligence “unacceptable.”
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During a hearing on AHRC Case No. 58/2025 (9) on Tuesday, Member Santanu Bharali presided over the proceedings. Representatives from the PWD, district administration, and construction firm Shree Gautam-Anupam Nirman (JV) were present.
-Advocate Niberita Barman represented PWD officer Bhaskar Mishra Bhagawati
-ADC Ajit Kr. Sarma and District Project Officer Kastav Talukdar appeared on behalf of the administration
-Advocate Kanhaiya Gupta and company representative Gautam Kr. Jain attended for the construction firm
The commission reviewed responses to its previous order issued on March 4, 2025, which mandated:
-Regular watering of GNB Road and MRD Road to reduce dust pollution
-Faster completion of flyover pillars up to at least five feet
-Immediate removal of construction debris and excess soil for a cleaner environment
Despite these orders, the AHRC found little to no progress. The commission noted that a case had been filed 20 days ago, yet no significant action had been taken. “We have received at least seven complaints regarding the road conditions,” the commission stated, reprimanding officials for inaction.
To alleviate public suffering, the commission directed:
-Water sprinkling on roads three times a day to control dust
-Removal of accumulated soil between flyover pillars
-Repairs of damaged roads to improve commuter movement
The Deputy Commissioner was also held accountable for failing to take necessary action. The commission emphasised the need for immediate compliance, stating: “Development is necessary, and the government will continue its work, but authorities must ensure public cooperation.”
With the case still under review, concerns among commuters continue to grow as they face daily hardships due to the prolonged construction.
